GoDaddy Bowl 2013: Ball State vs. Ark. State TV Info, Predictions and More

Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY SportsThe Red Wolves will play in their third consecutive GoDaddy bowl.

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The 2013 edition of the GoDaddy Bowl will pit two upcoming football programs against each other in Ball State and Arkansas State.

For the Cardinals (10-2), the team is coming off an impressive campaign in the MAC. It marks the team's second consecutive season with nine wins or more and its first 10-win campaign since 2008.

Backed by a strong passing attack, Ball State comes in as favorites.

On the other hand, although the Red Wolves (7-5) have won three fewer games than they had in 2011 and 2012, the team has made significant strides under first-year head coach Bryan Harsin. In fact, he has claimed the third-most wins by a head coach in his first season in school history.

Behind dual-threat quarterback Adam Kennedy, Arkansas State should give Ball State more than it can handle.

Arkansas State Keys to Victory

Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY SportsArkansas will need Gordon (center) at his best in this one.

1. Establish Rushing Attack Early

All season, teams have had no problem running against the Cardinals. In fact, the team has conceded a whopping 21 rushing touchdowns.

That makes it vital for the Red Wolves to be able to get the run game going early.

It all starts with dual-threat quarterback Adam Kennedy.

In the team’s seven wins, the senior has found success with his legs, averaging 42.8 rushing yards per game with four touchdowns. Over Arkansas State’s five losses, he’s only averaged 30.6 per game and found the end zone just once.

Once Kennedy is going, it gets a lot easier for running back Michael Gordon (106 CAR, 717 YDS, 10 TDS) to find his holes.

2. Find Cracks in a Strong Ball State Offensive Line

Entering the bowl season, the Cardinals have allowed just 14.0 sacks. That’s good for No. 17 in the nation.

Conversely, the Red Wolves have been solid at bringing down the quarterback, ranking No. 66 in the category with 23.0 sacks. In fact, the team has recorded a sack in all but one game this season.

Furthermore, Arkansas State has brought down the quarterback multiple times in six contests.

Who will win the battle in the trenches in this one?

3. Protect the Ball

One thing Ball State has been excellent at is creating turnovers.

Thus far, the team ranks No. 7 in turnovers forced with 30. Furthermore, the Cardinals have recorded 10 turnovers in the last four games.

Fortunately, the Red Wolves have been good at protecting the ball. The team currently ranks No. 7 in turnovers lost with just 13.

Arkansas State Players to Watch

Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesKennedy (right) will get a chance to shine against the Falcons.

Underclassman

Michael Gordon (RB, So.)

In his second year, Michael Gordon has thrived. The sophomore has rushed for 717 yards and 10 touchdowns on 106 carries in 11 games.

After being limited to less than 10 carries over the team’s first eight contests, Gordon has been seeing more opportunities as of late. He has totaled 434 yards and seven scores on an average of 18.0 carries over the last four games.

That includes topping 130 yards in two of the last three contests.

Against a Cardinals defense that is vulnerable against the run, Gordon will need to capitalize.

Draft Prospects

Ryan Carrethers (DT, Sr.)

Ryan Carrethers has been a force on the defensive side of the ball for Arkansas State.

Thus far, the senior has recorded 87 tackles (8.0 for loss), 4.0 sacks, three quarterback hurries and blocked a punt. He’s even added a rushing touchdown to his resume.

Ranked No. 21 at his position, Carrethers will have a prime opportunity to increase his draft stock against the nation’s No. 9-ranked passing attack.

Adam Kennedy (QB, Sr.)

Adam Kennedy has been a joy to watch.

During the regular season, the senior threw for 2,349 yards, 11 touchdowns and six interceptions on 70.0 percent passing. He’s also added 514 yards and four scores on 147 carries.

As a dual threat, Kennedy has been a thorn in the side of opposing defenses and has opened up lanes for Gordon. He's slotted as No. 38 among quarterbacks.

Facing a Ball State defense that is pretty solid against the pass, it’s sink or swim for Kennedy.

What They Are Saying

Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY SportsHarsin (left) has had a successful first season with Arkansas State.

Coaches

We are excited about the opportunity to play in the GoDaddy Bowl. Playing in a bowl game was one of the goals we set prior to the season, and our players, coaches, support staff and administration have all worked extremely hard to make this a reality. We look forward to another chance to take the field and finish our season strong.

We are excited about the opportunity to represent the Mid-American Conference against a terrific Arkansas State team in this year's GoDaddy Bowl. The trip to Mobile, Ala., will be an excellent experience for our team, families and fans. We are very grateful for this opportunity.